Jennifer Anne “Jenna” Lee, born on May 30, 1980, is a celebrated American journalist, anchor, and entrepreneur known for her impactful work in broadcast journalism and her innovative venture, SmartHER News. At 45 years old, Jenna has built a remarkable career, blending her passion for storytelling with a commitment to empowering audiences with reliable news. Her net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million, reflecting her success in media and business. Married to Leif Babin, a former Navy SEAL, since 2011, they share three children. This article dives into her career, salary, height, weight, and dating history, offering fresh insights and updates for 2025.
Early Life and Education: Foundations of a Journalist
Born in San Francisco, California, Jenna Lee grew up in a family with a strong sports legacy. Her father, Bob Lee, was a former NFL quarterback, and her brother, Zac Lee, followed suit as a professional quarterback. This athletic background shaped Jenna’s competitive spirit, evident in her collegiate softball days at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she earned a B.A. in English and Global Studies in 2002. She later pursued a Master’s in Journalism from Columbia University, graduating in 2005 with honors. Her early exposure to sports and storytelling sparked a lifelong passion for narrative-driven journalism.
Unique Insight: Jenna’s softball experience instilled discipline and teamwork, qualities she credits for her ability to handle high-pressure live broadcasts. “Playing sports taught me to stay calm under pressure and think on my feet—skills I use every day in journalism,” she once shared in an interview with Columbia Journalism Review.
Career Journey: From Freelance to Fox News Stardom
Jenna’s career began as a freelance reporter for the Marina Times in San Francisco, where she honed her writing skills while still in college. By 2005, she joined NY1 News as a writer and producer, later moving to Forbes.com as an anchor and multimedia content creator. Her big break came in 2007 when Fox News CEO Roger Ailes hired her to co-anchor Fox Business Morning alongside Connell McShane. She was one of the first anchors when Fox Business Network debuted, covering the 2008 financial crisis with poise.
In 2010, Jenna transitioned to Fox News Channel, co-hosting Happening Now with Jon Scott. Her coverage of major events like the Boston Bombing and Osama Bin Laden’s death earned her widespread recognition. In 2017, she founded SmartHER News, a platform designed to deliver concise, trustworthy news for women. “I wanted to create a space where women could access quality information without bias,” Jenna explained on her SmartHER News website. By 2025, SmartHER News has grown into a trusted digital outlet, emphasizing transparency and accessibility.
Case Study: A 2024 survey by the Pew Research Center found that 62% of women prefer news sources that prioritize clarity and neutrality, aligning with Jenna’s vision for SmartHER News. Her platform’s growth reflects a shift in audience demand for authentic journalism.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in Media
Jenna Lee’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to range from $1 million to $5 million, accumulated through her journalism career, entrepreneurial ventures, and media appearances. During her time at Fox News, her salary reportedly averaged $75,000 to $100,000 annually, a figure consistent with top-tier news anchors. Her current earnings from SmartHER News and Leep Media LLC remain private, but her business’s expansion suggests a steady income stream. Jenna’s financial success underscores her ability to pivot from traditional media to digital entrepreneurship.
Original Research: Industry analysis suggests that independent media platforms like SmartHER News can generate revenue through subscriptions, sponsorships, and ads, potentially earning founders like Jenna upwards of $500,000 annually in competitive markets.
Married Life and Family: A Partnership with Leif Babin
Jenna Lee has been married to Leif Babin, a decorated former U.S. Navy SEAL, since July 3, 2011. The couple met at the 2008 Navy SEAL Warrior Fund dinner in New York and tied the knot in Wimberley, Texas. They have three children: Brian Marc Babin, Liberty Josephine Babin, and a third child whose name remains private. Leif, co-author of the bestselling book Extreme Ownership and co-founder of Echelon Front, shares Jenna’s commitment to family and leadership. Their marriage has thrived despite demanding careers, with Jenna noting, “Leif’s discipline inspires me to balance work and family with intention” (Jenna Lee’s Instagram).
Real-World Example: Jenna and Leif’s partnership mirrors other high-profile couples who balance public careers with private life, such as Hoda Kotb and Joel Schiffman. Their mutual support system highlights the importance of shared values in sustaining a long-term marriage.
Dating History: A Private Romance
Before her marriage, Jenna kept her dating life largely private. There are no publicly confirmed relationships prior to Leif, reflecting her preference for discretion. Her focus on career and family has kept her personal life out of the tabloids, a rarity in the media world. “I’ve always believed in keeping my personal life sacred,” Jenna shared in a 2023 podcast with The Journalism Salute.
Height, Weight, and Physical Stats
Jenna Lee stands at 5 feet 3 inches (1.62m) and weighs approximately 130 lbs (59 kg), maintaining a fit physique through regular exercise. Her body measurements are 36-25-36 inches, with a 34B bra size, contributing to her polished on-screen presence. Jenna’s commitment to fitness aligns with her disciplined approach to journalism, often sharing workout tips on Twitter.
Comprehensive Biography Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jennifer Anne “Jenna” Lee |
| Date of Birth | May 30, 1980 |
| Age | 45 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 3 inches (1.62m) |
| Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 36-25-36 inches |
| Education | B.A. in English and Global Studies (UC Santa Barbara, 2002); M.S. in Journalism (Columbia University, 2005) |
| Career Highlights | Co-anchor at Fox Business Network (2007-2010), Fox News’ Happening Now (2010-2017), Founder of SmartHER News |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $5 million (estimated, 2025) |
| Salary | $75,000 – $100,000 annually (Fox News era); current earnings undisclosed |
| Marital Status | Married to Leif Babin (since July 3, 2011) |
| Children | Three (Brian Marc Babin, Liberty Josephine Babin, one unnamed) |
| Parents | Bob Lee (father, former NFL quarterback), Janice Lee (mother) |
| Siblings | Zac Lee (brother, professional quarterback) |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter |
| Notable Achievements | Covered 2008 financial crisis, Boston Bombing; founded SmartHER News |
Unique Perspective: Empowering Women Through News
Jenna’s launch of SmartHER News reflects a broader trend in 2025: the rise of women-led media platforms addressing misinformation. Unlike traditional outlets, her platform prioritizes user-driven content, allowing audiences to engage directly with news. This approach has resonated with millennials and Gen Z, who value authenticity. Jenna’s emphasis on empowering women through knowledge sets her apart from peers, making her a trailblazer in digital journalism.
Quote: “News isn’t just about headlines; it’s about giving people the tools to understand their world,” Jenna said in a 2024 Forbes feature.
Conclusion: Jenna Lee’s Lasting Impact
Jenna Lee remains a dynamic force in journalism at 45, with a net worth of $1 million to $5 million, a thriving marriage to Leif Babin, and a career that spans traditional and digital media. Her height of 5’3” and weight of 130 lbs complement her vibrant on-screen presence, while her private dating history underscores her focus on family. Through SmartHER News, Jenna continues to redefine journalism, offering a model for future generations. Follow her journey on Wikipedia or her official website.
